Quick verdict: The best converter is the one made for your pen’s filling system. Compatibility comes before capacity or price.
Converters let cartridge fountain pens use bottled ink, but compatibility is not universal.
Top Picks
| Pilot CON-70 Converter | Best Pilot option |
| Lamy Z28 Converter | Best for Lamy |
| Kaweco Standard Converter | Best compact option |
| Schmidt K5 Converter | Best standard international option |
| Sailor Fountain Pen Converter | Best for Sailor |
Who Should Buy — and Who Should Skip
Buy a converter if you want bottled-ink choice without switching pens. Skip it if cartridges are more convenient for you.
1. Pilot CON-70 Converter — Best Pilot option
Useful capacity for compatible Pilot pens.
2. Lamy Z28 Converter — Best for Lamy
A straightforward bottled-ink route for compatible Lamy pens.
3. Kaweco Standard Converter — Best compact option
Fits compact compatible Kaweco pens.
4. Schmidt K5 Converter — Best standard international option
Fits many compatible standard-international pens.
5. Sailor Fountain Pen Converter — Best for Sailor
The normal converter route for compatible Sailor pens.
How to Choose
- Compatibility: Confirm exact pen model first.
- Capacity: Larger converters reduce refill frequency.
- Cleaning: Converters help flush pens.
- Travel: Cartridges can be cleaner on the road.
- Seal: Proper fit prevents leaks.
What Makes the Upgrade Worth It?
There is little value beyond reliable fit, smooth operation, and useful capacity.
Use one with our best fountain pen inks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are converters universal?
No. Many brands use proprietary fittings.
Why use one?
It lets a cartridge pen use bottled ink.
Do converters hold as much as piston fillers?
Usually not.
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Final Verdict
Buy the converter designed for your pen first; capacity and price come second.